Prince George may have been on his best behavior during his first official engagement yesterday, but according to dad William, the 8-month-old has been keeping his parents awake at night!

"I hope that George doesn't keep you up," the 31-year-old told his hosts during a state dinner at the governor general's home, where the couple have been staying. "He's at his most vocal at 3 a.m., as you may have noticed."

William jokingly added, "I swear I heard him doing the Haka this morning," referring to the war dance made famous by the country's All Blacks rugby team.

"He's a bonny lad, and you'll be pleased to know that he's currently preparing for life as a [rugby player]," he teased the 200 assembled guests.

"I cannot tell you how happy I am to be back here in God's Own Country, as I have learned to call it, and this time with my wife and son," the Prince continued, praising the people for their "warm-heartedness and generosity."

For those excited to see Kate dressed up in an evening gown, the Duchess did not disappoint, wearing a black Jenny Packham dress with hand-stitched silver beading in a pattern similar to New Zealand's national emblem.

During the course of the evening, the couple also unveiled a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by New Zealand artist Nick Cuthel.

Earlier in the day, the Duke and Duchess laid a wreath in Blenheim, New Zealand for Anzac Day of military remembrance, which takes place later this month. They then greeted the hoards of spectators who had waited hours to see them.

Lord of the Rings filmmaker Peter Jackson also escorted the couple around an aircraft museum where William climbed into a vintage airplane.

The director had spent years collecting World War I uniforms and memorabilia and even gifted the pair with a replica of a vintage flying helmet to give to George when he's older.

For the trip to Blenheim, Kate chose a blue Alexander McQueen coat paired with sapphire and diamond earrings, navy heels and a poppy brooch.